Senator Clinton Envisions Large Role for Building Community

Senator Clinton called on those assembled to inject themselves into those debates on the Federal level that ultimately will impact the City’s economic strength. “The more the business community really pushes the public sector, the better it is,” she said, noting that “consistent cajoling, pushing and reminding” are necessary on such vital issues as federal transportation funding, terrorism insurance legislation and the flow of reimbursements related to the September 11 terrorist attack.

In looking at the difficult times the City is currently facing, Senator Clinton said that New York City should draw from its past. “It would behoove us to look back at the City’s history, when times were really hard. The Great Depression saw the greatest period of building in New York City, mainly driven by private sector leaders.There was an explosion of building projects so grand in scope that we are still living off of them. We need that same sense of commitment today.”

To help ensure that New Yorkers realize the full potential for a revitalized Lower Manhattan, Senator Clinton suggested the formation of an advisory committee that would meet and provide updates on a regular basis. Members of the Building Congress, which she described as “being on the same page” in terms of the rebuilding process, would be actively involved.

Building Congress President Richard T. Anderson echoed the Senator’s comments regarding the private sector’s role in the rebuilding process and pledged Building Congress support.“In the long run, private businesses and developers will play a large role in the shaping of Lower Manhattan. We are focused on the public sector’s role right now, but it is the
private sector that will be responsible for the lion’s share of the redevelopment. We look forward to working with Senator Clinton on these vital issues.”

During the question and answer session, Senator Clinton acknowledged that New York City is facing a potential energy crisis in the coming years. She suggested that her office and the Building Congress create a task force to examine the current situation and recommend actions to ensure New York City has reliable and affordable electricity over the long-term.